Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac & Cheese

Name: Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac & Cheese
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb); 8 oz elbow macaroni; 6 tbsp unsalted butter (3 for chicken, 3 for sauce); 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; 2 cups whole milk; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce; 1/4 cup honey; 1 tsp cayenne pepper; Fresh garlic, to taste (about 2 cloves)

Published: October 16, 2025

by samuel cullingham

What You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac & Cheese:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding.
Fresh Garlic: Choose firm, fresh garlic cloves for the best flavor; they really make a difference in this dish.
Pasta (Elbow Macaroni): About 8 ounces will do; choose whole wheat or gluten-free if preferred.
Butter: Use unsalted butter for cooking the roux and adding creaminess to your cheese sauce.
All-Purpose Flour: This is key for thickening that luscious cheese sauce we’re after.
Milk: Whole milk gives you a rich and creamy texture; skim milk can work in a pinch but won’t be as indulgent.

For the Sauce:

Soy Sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce to better control the saltiness while enhancing flavors beautifully.
Honey: This balances out the spice perfectly; go for raw honey if you want that extra depth in flavor.
Cayenne Pepper: Add spice according to your preference; remember: more heat means more fun!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac & Cheese:

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s heating up, chop your chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and season them with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Cook Your Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Toss in the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté Chicken

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt two tablespoons of butter. Add your seasoned chicken pieces and cook until golden brown on all sides—about 5-7 minutes should do it.

Step 4: Make the Cheese Sauce

In another pot, melt three tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Sprinkle in flour to create a roux, stirring constantly until light golden brown—about two minutes. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth and thickened.

Step 5: Cheese It Up

Now comes the fun part! Stir in your favorite cheeses (cheddar is non-negotiable) until melted and creamy. Don’t forget to add soy sauce, honey, and cayenne pepper for that spicy-sweet goodness!

Step 6: Combine Everything

Fold in cooked pasta and sautéed chicken into that glorious cheese sauce. Transfer everything into an oven-safe baking dish and bake for about 20 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.

Transfer to plates and drizzle with remaining honey sauce for the perfect finishing touch!

Now all that’s left is serving yourself a generous portion (or two) of this heavenly Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac & Cheese! Enjoy every last bite while contemplating how quickly you can make it again!

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Perfecting Cooking Process

To achieve the best results, start by searing the chicken until golden brown. While the chicken cooks, prepare the pasta in boiling salted water. Simultaneously, whip up the creamy sauce with cheese and spices to ensure everything is ready to combine seamlessly.

Flavor Your Way

Feel free to customize your Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac & Cheese! Swap out chicken for shrimp or add sautéed veggies like spinach or bell peppers. Experiment with different cheeses such as gouda or pepper jack for an extra kick of flavor.

Storing & Reheating

To store leftovers, place your Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac & Cheese in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in a microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.

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Creating this dish always brings back memories of my family’s reaction when I first served it at our holiday gathering—everyone kept coming back for seconds, and my cousin even tried to bribe me for the recipe!

FAQs

What is Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac & Cheese?

Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac & Cheese combines the creamy goodness of macaroni and cheese with zingy flavors from spicy honey and seasoned chicken. This dish features tender pasta enveloped in a rich cheese sauce, complemented by the sweet heat of honey and the kick of pepper. Ideal for those who crave comfort food with a twist, this recipe balances flavors beautifully, making it perfect for family meals or gatherings.

How do I make Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken?

To create Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken, start by marinating chicken pieces in a mixture of honey, pepper, garlic, and olive oil. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes to absorb the flavors. Then, pan-sear or grill the chicken until it’s golden brown and cooked through. Once done, chop it into bite-sized pieces to mix into your mac and cheese. This chicken adds a delightful kick that elevates your dish.

Can I customize the mac and cheese recipe?

Absolutely! You can customize Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac & Cheese by adding vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition. For a creamier texture, consider incorporating different cheeses such as gouda or pepper jack. You can also adjust the spice level by varying the amount of pepper or honey used in the recipe. Personalizing your dish allows you to cater to your taste preferences effortlessly.

What are some side dishes to serve with Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac & Cheese?

Pairing side dishes with Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac & Cheese enhances your meal experience. Consider serving a fresh garden salad dressed lightly in vinaigrette to balance the richness of mac and cheese. You might also enjoy roasted vegetables or garlic bread on the side. These options complement the flavors while providing additional textures that make your meal more enjoyable.

Conclusion

In summary, Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac & Cheese is an exciting twist on traditional comfort food that combines creamy cheese sauce with spicy-sweet chicken. This dish is not only delicious but also versatile, allowing for customization based on personal preferences. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or enjoying it solo, this recipe promises satisfaction with every bite. Don’t hesitate to try making this flavorful dish today!

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